A study on the intervention path of rhythmic cheerleading on body image distress and mental health in female cancer patients

This study systematically explored the effectiveness, mechanisms, and current status of rhythmic cheerleading interventions for body image distress and psychological well-being in female cancer patients, utilizing a scoping review and bibliometric analysis. The study analyzed literature indexed in the Web of Science (WOS) core database from 2005 to 2024. A multi-stage screening process ultimately identified 40 core articles, which were analyzed from three perspectives: bibliometric characteristics, intervention mechanisms, and research limitations. Bibliometric results revealed a strong interdisciplinary focus in this area, with rapid growth from 2012 to 2019. Key themes focused on exercise and physical activity interventions (40%) and dance and movement therapy interventions (35%). Analysis of intervention mechanisms revealed that rhythmic cheerleading, leveraging its four key characteristics of rhythm, teamwork, expressiveness, and enjoyment, synergistically works through a triple mechanism of "physiological regulation, psychological reconstruction, and social support." Physiologically, synchronized movements activate endorphins, serotonin release, and HPA axis regulation, alleviating treatment-related fatigue and anxiety. Psychologically, artistic expression promotes identity reconstruction, helping patients shed the "patient" label. Socially, teamwork fosters support networks and reduces social avoidance. The study also identified limitations in the current field, including low-level evidence, insufficient personalized and culturally adaptable intervention programs, and in-depth analysis of neurobiological mechanisms. This study provides evidence-based support for academic research and clinical application of rhythmic cheerleading in the field of psychological rehabilitation for female cancer patients. Future research is needed through multicenter randomized controlled trials, the development of tiered intervention models, and the application of neuroimaging technology to further refine the intervention approach and promote its adoption as an effective and sustainable cancer rehabilitation intervention.